On July 23, Sister Cities International celebrated its 70th anniversary at the Embassy of Japan residence. The landmark diplomatic and cultural event honored the organization’s founding by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1956 and reaffirmed its mission of global friendship, cooperation and peace.
The evening brought together Sister Cities leaders, members from across the U.S. and distinguished guests from Japan to commemorate seven decades of international partnership. The celebration highlighted the enduring power of people-to-people diplomacy, a concept President Eisenhower championed to prevent conflict and strengthen global understanding.
The Embassy of Japan Residence — one of Washington’s most elegant diplomatic homes — provided a fitting backdrop for an anniversary rooted in cross-cultural connection. Guests were welcomed with traditional Japanese hospitality, regional cuisine and displays showcasing Japan’s Sister City relationships with U.S. communities.
As the host city for the anniversary celebration, Washington, D.C., reaffirmed its leadership in international engagement. The event underscored the District’s expanding Sister Cities portfolio and its commitment to building bridges with global capitals — an effort aligned with the vision of Washington, DC Sister Cities International, the newly formed entity advancing the city’s diplomatic outreach.
Irene Chase, Ambassador Shigeo Yamada, Sister Cities International board chair Carlo Capua and Michael Hyatt, president of Sister Cities International Foundation.